Hello 😀

Finally, long chapter ahead ‼️

Vaanga vaanga story kulla polaa 🚴‍♀️💜🦋

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♡♡

Enna da panneetu irukka?

(What the fuck are you doing, man?)

I wondered, running my fingers through my hair, only to smooth it back as thoughts of her-about my student crept in again.

My mind reminded me sternly, urging me to focus on the boundaries-professional facts, duty, self-control, the rules that shows how a professor should interact with a student.

Kaari thuppuvaan yevanaadhu nee un student'ku pannadha paathirundhaa..

(Someone would spit on you if they saw what you're doing to your student)

It screamed within me.

Pch!!!

Yet, I couldn't stop myself from thinking about her.

With a smile, I began reminiscing about our moment at the temple. She was so soft and feminine, her eyes sparkled with a shy glow, fluttering, leaving even the butterflies lost in the beauty of her delicate lashes.

I rubbed my nape, feeling the smile spread wider across my cheeks as I marveled at how much I'd changed, especially around her. The memory of her trembling form when I playfully tickled her bare waist flashed before me, followed by the way she shivered when I kissed the soft spot behind her ear.

She smelled like jasmine-so pure and intoxicating.

Pressing my lips together, I hopped up the steps to my private room at Hotel Hyagriva in Srirangam.

I wanted to escape the presence of strangers, craving the privacy of my own space. That's why I chose this room. A place where I could shut out the world, be alone with my thoughts, and breathe without the weight of anyone's gaze on me.

After closing the door behind me, I shed my sweaty shirt, neatly stuffing it into the laundry basket and leaving my upper body bare. I plopped down onto the couch with a thud, spreading my arms over the headrest and leaning back, resting my nape against it as I gazed at the ceiling, a smirk tugging slowly at the corner of my lips.

I lost count of how many times she trembled, blushed, and turned crimson whenever I drew her near, feeling the warmth of her skin beneath my palms and fingers.

That softness...

Fuck. Even though it's forbidden to think of my student like this-like something more personal- I closed my eyes, inhaled deeply, gripping the couch headrest as I relived those moments when she was close to me.

That was so damn close !!

I had just pulled her between the pillars to tease her and explain the reason for my visit, but the moment she bit her nails and looked at me with those doe-like eyes, I forgot everything around me.

I chuckled at my thoughts, realizing how absurd I sounded-thinking of myself as her pervert and her as my little seductress. But the truth was, she was just a innocent little baby in every form. So, I shook my head to dismiss those thoughts about my student.

Standing up, I grabbed a towel from the cupboard and headed into the restroom for a bath.

The summer sun in Srirangam had drained me, and the sudden shift from the cold air to the heat made me feel completely worn out. The crowd at the temple had been immense as I waited in line, but she was so engrossed in her prayers to her Perumaal that she didn't even notice me.

After my shower, I emerged with a towel around my waist, ruffling the damp hair at the back of my head with another towel draped over my shoulder. As I walked towards the cupboard, I heard my phone ringtone. So, I diverted my path, moved to the bedside table, picked up the mobile, and smirked at the caller ID.

Panna velaiku paapa thirumbi paakaama odeerum'le nenachen...

(I thought the baby would run away without looking back at you for the things I had done to her)

Chuckling at the thought, I answered the call and put it on speaker before setting the phone on the bed. I then stood in front of the mirror, ruffling the tousled hair on my forehead with my fingers as I heard,

"Ne... neenga ippo yedhukku eng'oorukku vandhirukkel?"

(Wh... why have you come to our town now?)

She stammered, pretending to be serious, as if what had happened between us at the temple hadn't affected her at all. I bit the inside of my cheeks and, matching her tone, asked just as seriously,

"Purila, ma. Nee enna soldra? Unga oorukku naan vandhirukanaa?"

(I don't understand, ma. What are you saying? Me? In your town?)

I sat on the bed, propped my elbow on it, and took the phone, turning off speaker mode before placing it to my ear. But she fell silent, and all I could hear was her breathing.

"Oi"

"Aahn. Nee..neenga poi sollaadhingo. Ippodhaane Namma Kovil'le paatho? Pinna, yen ipdi poi soldrel?"

(Aahn. Don't lie. Didn't we just meet at the temple? Then, why are you lying like this?)

She whined innocently, stammering in between, as if all she wanted was for me to admit that I was really here in her town.

Acho !

"Hello. Sir, irukke'laa?"

(Are you there?)

"Mmm... Seetha, I have an important meeting with our hod now. I'll call you back later. Bye..."

"Hello... hello... helloooo..."

But I ended the call, laughing, then went to change. And, with a determined intent, I stepped out to find her house.

As I walked through the streets, the Brahmins gave me scrutinizing glances, seeing me from up to down. It wasn't just because I was a stranger - I was also wearing a mask and cap to hide my face. What if her parents saw me?

Preplanning!

As I turned another corner, I heard a cheerful shout,

"Setha irungo maami, naan thuniya kaaya pottutu varen!"

(Hold on, aunt. I'll be back after I hang these clothes to dry!)

A smile crept onto my face as I glanced to my right, and there she was-hanging clothes on a rope tied between two tree branches behind a house, her back turned to me.

Her messy hair was tied into a bun, and her saree pallu was neatly tucked into her waist, revealing a glimpse of her waist and the bare skin between her blouse and the saree.

And my gaze fell on the soft sole and heels of her feet, with the delicate golden chimes of her anklet peeking out from the edge of her saree as she stretched to hang the clothes.

For a brief moment, she turned in my direction, and I smiled, but she quickly turned away, bending down to pick up a bucket before disappearing into the house, shaking her head.

I stood there, frowning, but reality snapped back as a loud horn honked from my left. I turned to see an old man on a bicycle, his face showing mild irritation.

"Yedaa, ambi, Setha vali vittu nillu oi"

(You.. young man. Step aside and leave some space for us to pass)

He said to me with an annoyance.

Ambi'ah?

I quickly stepped aside, apologizing as he passed by, shaking his head and muttering something under his breath. I sighed and turned back to see her just as she emerged at the back door, gripping the doorframe with both hands and looking at me with wide, nervous eyes.

I couldn't help but smile and wave at her, but instead of returning my greeting, she glanced back inside the house before turning to glare at me and then disappearing inside again.

What was that about?

I frowned, feeling a mix of confusion and disappointment.

Taking a seat on a wooden bench at the nearby tea shop, I ordered a cup of tea, my thoughts still occupied by her reaction. The old man, likely the owner, handed me a steaming cup of tea. I removed my mask, flashing him a polite smile as he gave me a curious, scrutinizing look. After a moment, he smiled back and disappeared into the shop, leaving me to sigh in relief.

Mask potadhu oru kuthamaa? pulla pudikiravan maadhiri paakuraanga.

(Wearing a mask is their mistake? They were looking at me as if I'm a baby snatcher)

I took a sip of the tea, but just then, my phone rang. Glancing at her house's backyard, I answered the call, my attention split between the conversation and the view.

"Hello"

"HOD enga'aathu munnaadi irukka tea kadaile dha irukkaa'nu nekku theriyaama poyiduchu paarungo"

(I didn't realize that our HOD is at the tea shop right in front of my house)

I chuckled at her playful mocking tone and hummed as I sipped my tea before responding,

"Naan sonnadha nee thappaa purunjutta'nu nenaikiren"

(I think you misunderstood what I said)

"Aahn, aahn. Naan ellaame nannaa thelivaa dha professor purunju irukken. Ungalukku dha yedhu hod cabin, yedhu eng'ooru tea kadai'nu theriyaama poyiruchu"

(Yeah, yeah. I completely understood everything clearly, professor. It's just that you couldn't figure out the difference between the HOD's cabin and the tea shop in our town)

I smiled silently, choosing not to respond, as she continued to rant.

"Epdi epdi.. yen enga'ooru vandhirukkel'nu kettadhukku.. naan unga oorukku vandhirukkenaa'nu... evlo bit uhh"

(Look..., how you dodged my question about why you're in my town, and instead, you made me wonder if you're even here at all. How clever in your bit of acting)

"Bit aah?"

"Aama. Sachin padathula Vijay podradha vida romba nannaave bit'uh pottinga, professor "

(Yeah, you gave a better performance than Vijay in Sachin, professor)

I burst into laughter upon hearing her witty comebacks.

"Sirikaadhingo. Naan evlo bayandhutten theriyumo? Ungala maadhiri vera yaaro irundhiruppaangalo nlaa avlo yosichuttu irundhen. Aana neenga nannaa poi soldrel "

(Don't laugh. Do you know how scared I was? I kept wondering if there might be someone else like you out there. But here you are, lying so easily)

That abruptly cut my laughter short. Why was she blaming me now? I hadn't lied about anything. I do have a meeting with the HOD in two hours-online, of course. The main reason for the earlier moment was just to provoke a reaction from her; it was all in good fun.

"Seetha.. see, naan Inga illa'nu sollavae illaye. Neeye yosichu paaru. Naan unga oorla illa'nu sonnenaa unkitta?"

(Seetha, look, I didn't say I wasn't here. Think about it. Did I ever tell you I wasn't in your town?)

I asked her seriously, and after a few seconds, she said no.

"Then what?"

"Aahn. Aanaa neenga namma hod oda meeting'nu sonnel"

(But you mentioned that you have a meeting with our hod)

"Aama meeting dha"

(Yes there's a meeting)

I accept.

"Online meeting?"

Her words came out in a slight whine. I smiled and replied,

"Ippodha nee en student maadhiri peseerka"

(Right now, you're speaking like my student.)

"Mch. Seri ippo yedhukku Inga vandhirukkel? Adha sollungo. Enga appa amma rendu perula yaaraadhu oruthar ungala paathuttaa kooda.. naan avlodha"

(Okay, so why are you here now? Tell me. If my parents see you, I'm done)

Hearing her hurried words filled with fear made me smile, and I opened my mouth to reassure her. But before I could speak,

"Naan.."

(I..)

"Aana ungalukku bayamae illa'le? Setha nannaa yosichu ellaa velayum seiyanum, professor. Ipdi yeno thaano'nu seiya koodaadhu. Naan'laa ungala paaka unga veetukku vandhaa epdi padhungi padhungi varuven? Aana neenga epdi vandhirukkinga paarungo. Bayamae illai. Setha unga moolaikum vela kodungo.."

(But you're not scared at all, are you? You should think a bit and handle everything properly, Professor. You shouldn't just act recklessly. If I come to your house, how will I arrive discreetly? But look at how you showed up. You're not scared at all. Just give some work to your brain)

My brows knitted at her harsh words, and just when I thought she had stopped, she continued to shout, pushing me closer to the edge of my patience. To keep myself from lashing out, I inhaled deeply and said,

"Shhhhh... just lower your voice, Seetha. Remember, you're speaking with your professor"

I shushed her firmly, and she fell silent, muttering a faint "sorry" after a minute. Shaking my head, I took a moment to gather my thoughts, realizing how frustrating yet oddly amusing this exchange had become.

"Listen, naan onnum unna paathuttu poga inga varla. I have something more important to tell you. Adhu nerla paathu sonnaa dha correct'aah irukkum. Adhukku dha vandhen. I thought of telling you that today, but I didn't know you'd be here. So, I just came to share it with you in person"

(Listen, I'm not here just to see you. I have something more important to tell you. It would be right to say it in person. That's why I came here. I thought of telling you today, but I didn't know you'd be here. So, I just came to share it with you in person)

I explained, and she remained silent, prompting me to continue.

"And also, don't forget to meet me before early tomorrow morning. I have a return train at 6 AM, so make sure you do something to meet me as soon as possible. Right?"

"Yes"

She whispered.

"And another thing, don't change into your invisible form until I say so. Understood?"

"Mm"

Her humming and one-word answers only frustrated me further, making me say,

"Speak up! I still remember you were shouting at me just a minute ago"

"I'm sorry, professor. Adhu yedho bayathula vandhuduthu"

(I'm sorry, professor. I must have shouted out of fear)

I shook my head at her whine.

"Naan sonnadhellaa marandhuraadha. Varumbodhu call pannu"

(Don't forget what I said. Call me when you arrive.)

"Sure"

I declined the call with a hum and headed to the resort just two streets away. After shifting into another private homestay for tourists-two houses down from hers-I sent her a message.

"Meet me soon before tomorrow. I need to head back"

Her reply came almost immediately:

Seetha😇: "Okay, pa 🙏🏻"

I raised my brows at her response.

Rude.

Ivlo neram nee epdi irundha?

(How have you been till now?)

I rolled my eyes at my own back to back comments. Then, after finishing my online tutor session for the JEE students, I refreshed myself, had my lunch-which I'd ordered-and then called someone to chat and clarify a few important matters, something that I planned to discuss with her soon.

That evening, I found myself waiting for her to call or message. Because, I had already booked a ticket back to Ooty for the next morning, and I needed to see her before I left.

I had to tell her about the thing that was scaring me more than anything.

And to avoid being caught by her parents, I stayed inside the homestay, immersing myself in work-teaching, cooking, and aimlessly scrolling through my phone. I even lingered in my evening shower for over 10 minutes just to escape my boredom.

Despite being used to being alone, it felt different this time.

And the reason is that she truly changed me. I never imagined a student could have such an impact on my life. I can feel the transformation within me. Girls and women often kept their distance because of my serious attitude and unfriendly behavior.

Yet, despite my warnings, scoldings, and attempts to push her away, she kept coming back.

She loved me, listened to me, comforted me, and remained by my side with the same unwavering affection.

The word "love" had faded from my life, buried alongside a soul who meant everything to me. But she breathed new life into that word, renewing it within me.

I swear that, her unconditional love is a blessing, bringing both joy and emotion at times for me. However, I still find myself maintaining that strict tone with her.

I know that's not right.

Alavu kadandha anbu kudukuravanga kitta, kaachu moochu'nu kathuradhum, kova padradhum thappu dha.

(It's wrong to shout at those who give love beyond measure; it's completely wrong)

But,

What really irked me was when she-my student shouted at me-it struck me as a typical professor's reaction. Even though I was calm and playful around her, the strictness in me as a professor couldn't accept her yelling. I feel, that was natural.

I knew I needed to change that. But it was hard. I've always been like this, stern with everyone, pushing away parts of myself that I didn't even know existed. Yet, with her, those hidden sides of me were starting to showcase.

But to be both scolding and calm toward the same person? It felt cruel, almost demonic. The mindset of the other person-her, in this case-could easily become insecure, and she might feel sad. I never intended to hurt her; I just got carried away in the moment.

So, with thoughts of controlling my temper and shedding the professional facade during our unprofessional moments, I fell asleep that night after a lot of overthinking and also considering some possible solutions.

But I was jolted awake by the vibration of my phone. Sighing, I realized it was a call. Stretching my right hand, I grabbed my phone from the pillow beside me, smiling with sleepy eyes as I saw the called ID. However, my smile quickly faded when I saw the time-1:10 AM.

Indha nerathula yen call pandraa?

(Why is she calling me at this hour?)

Expecting it to be her, calling with an excuse for not being able to meet, I answered, rolling over onto my back from my stomach. But,

"Kovil pakkam vandhirungo. Naan anga dha vandhuttu irukken"

(Come near the temple. I'm almost on my way there)

I furrowed my brows and glanced at the clock to confirm the time before saying,

"Mani enna paathiyaa? Vara mudilanaa venaa vidu"

(Did you see the time? If you can't come, then just don't)

"Aiyo, apdilaam illai. Naan ippodha enga veetula irundhu thappichu vandhuttu irukken"

(No, it's nothing like that. I just managed to sneak out of my house right now)

I got down from the bed, grabbed my white and ash-colored T-shirt from the chair near the bed, a small smile tugging at my lips.

"Thappuchu vandhuttu irukkiyaa?"

(Sneak out?)

"Aama. Veliya vandhutten.. vegamaa nadandhuttu irukken.."

(Yes, I'm outside now... walking fast..)

I peeked out, opening the front door of the private homestay, and saw the shadow of a woman, walking, hiding her face and head with the saree pallu. Biting my lips to suppress a laugh, I heard her say,

"Hello sir.. irukke'laa? Hel.."

(Are you there?)

I grabbed her elbow just as she was about to pass by the homestay I was staying in and swiftly pulled her inside.

She let out a small shriek, but as soon as her eyes met mine, she calmed down and then glared at me, lifting her face with a defiant look. I smiled at her, still holding the phone to our ears, and said,

"Irukkenunga, ammini"

(Yes, I'm here, madam)

Her lips broke into a smile.

"Hehe.. inga enna pandrel?"

(Hehe.. what are you doing here?)

She placed her hands on my chest without hesitation, but my heart skipped a beat.

I doubted she even realized what she had done. Gulping, I glanced down at her hands resting on my bare chest, then back at her. Her brow furrowed as she followed my gaze, and suddenly, she let out a startled gasp, quickly pulling away when it dawned on her that I was half-naked, standing there without a shirt.

"Perumaaley!"

I sighed, breathing out as I gently tugged the saree pallu off her head. Her startled expression softened, and I couldn't help but smile at how flustered she looked.

"Enna kolam idhu?"

(What is this look?)

I asked while sliding my T-shirt into my right hand after tucking my mobile into the pocket of my track pants.

"Kolam illai. Yaaraadhu paarthuttaa enna panna? Adhaa maranju maranju vandhen"

(It's not a look or something. What if someone see me? So, I just came here sneaking around)

She said softly, timidly, while fidgeting with her saree pallu after sliding it down from her head. I smirked, finding her nervousness endearing.

"Ohoo"

Sliding my left hand into the tee while keeping my gaze on her shy eyes, I lifted my arms and pulled the shirt down over my head, tucking it down. She stood there, leaning back against the wall, watching me without blinking, as usual.

I smiled and peeked outside to catch the elderly men in the street laughing, then turned my attention back to her. And, placing my right hand on the wall beside her head, I leaned down, creating an inch of space between our faces. Her doe-like eyes sparkled with shyness, and I noticed her lips trembled while her eyelashes fluttered.

A sudden mischievousness took hold of me as her breath hitched in her throat. With a teasing tone, I whispered,

"Sollatumaa?"

(Shall I tell you?)

And I watched as her lips parted slightly, trembling as she whispered back,

"En..ennadhu?"

(Wh..what?)

Her gaze flickered from my eyes to my hair, then back to my eyes, before settling on my lips. I bit down on my lower lip, smirking as I straightened up.

"Paper irukkaa?"

(Do you have a paper?)

Her expression was priceless!

She looked flushed, embarrassed, angry, disappointed, and a mix of emotions I couldn't quite decipher. Then, taking a deep breath, she crossed her arms below her chest and turned her face away, clearly showing her frustration.

I smiled with a sigh, and when she momentarily glanced my way, I took my chance to blow her a kiss, hoping it would make her gasp or whine. Instead, she twisted her lips and turned away, much to my amusement.

Raising my brows, I suppressed a laugh, leaning back against the pillar behind me, arms crossed below my chest just like her, patiently waiting for her to look at me again.

The moonlight cast a soft glow on the side of her face, illuminating her features beautifully. Her eyelashes brushed against her cheeks, her pointed nose, and the delicate curve of her lips, her perfect jawline. The simple gold chain around her neck added a touch.

I absentmindedly toyed with my locket, stealing a glance away to give her a moment to gather herself. When she finally lowered her hands and met my gaze again, I held her eyes, watching her gulp hard before she quickly turned her head away, then glanced back at me.

In an effort to break the tension that hung between us, I offered her a warm smile and asked,

"Andha paper vachirukiyaa?"

(Do you have that paper?)

She faced me, blinked at me, and asked,

"Yendha paper?"

(Which paper?)

"Haan, exam paper.."

I spoke in disbelief, and she frowned in response,

"Adha naan exam hall'laye kuduthuttane?"

(Didn't I give that in the exam hall itself?)

What the hell had happened to my student? wondering, I said,

"Maa.. andha invisible paper'eh kaetten, ma"

(Ma... I'm asking about that invisible power paper, ma)

She smiled sheepishly at me.

"Oh adhuvaa? Irunga.."

(Oh, that? Wait..)

"Mmm"

I hummed softly and took a step closer, standing right in front of her. And, glancing outside, I noticed the men were still deep in conversation, then turned my attention back to her. But, she was looking down at me, her gaze focused. I frowned for a moment, then glanced down to see the locket she had given me resting on my chest, nestled against my T-shirt.

A smile spread across my face as I understood her mindset. She lifted her hand, gently pinching the locket between her fingers, her eyes sparkling as she admired it.

"Innum idha kalattalayaa neenga?"

(Have you still not taken it off?)

Her voice came out as a whisper, filled with emotion.

"Yedhukku kalattanum?"

(Why should I take it off?)

She lifted her eyelashes, gazing at me with eyes brimming.

"Nee kud.."

(This is you..)

"I love you, professor"

I was left speechless after hearing her say those three words after so long. Everything around us faded into a blur as we locked eyes. My right hand lifted instinctively, brushing a stray curl of hair away from her cheek. The silky strand glided over my fingers as I tucked it behind her ear. When I glanced at her again, her eyes fluttered shut, and I grazed my fingertips along the side of her neck, smiling. She scrunched her face and lifted her shoulders, placing her palms gently on my chest. A blushy smile graced her lips, and I couldn't help but smile back.

Leaning down, I was about to place a tender kiss on the center of her forehead, feeling her warm breath against my neck. But just as my lips almost met felt the warmness of her forehead, we both jerked apart, and my lips barely brushed against the space between her eyebrows, hearing,

"Indha nerathula inga enna Muthu thaedeetu irukka?"

(What's wrong, Muthu? Why are you so restless at this hour?)

I glanced down at her, noticing her eyes widen in shock. I furrowed my brows, puzzled, and she whispered,

"Maama"

I felt a wave of tension, worried about what might happen if they came here and saw her.

"Chumma dha maami. Apdiyae kaathaada vandhen. Thookam varalai"

(Nothing, maami. I just came out for some fresh air. Couldn't sleep)

I heard an elderly man's voice, followed by an old woman asking,

"Ohh. Ponnu periya manushi aageetaa'nu varuthamo?"

(Ohh, are you worried that your daughter has grown up into a woman now?)

"Varutham ellaa illai, maami. Sandhosham dha. Aana naala kaalaama function yerpaadu'laa nannaa nadakanum. Adha nenachaa dha manda vedikardhu"

(No, maami, no worries at all. It's all happiness. But there's a function tomorrow morning, right? Just thinking about everything gives me a headache)

I glanced at her, noticing how her expression softened upon hearing her uncle's concerns. I half-listened to their conversation, feeling indifferent. I didn't understand what the big deal was; all I knew was that it could be a painful time for girls or women to endure. But why was there a need to celebrate it?

"Adhellaa nannaa nadakkum, Muthu. Namma kudumbathula ivlo periya vishesham vachuttu ipdi thookam varla nu solleetu irukkiyaa, pa"

(That will go well, Muthu. It's a big function for our family, and you're not feeling sleepy?)

The man chuckled and said,

"Seringa maami. Naan appo kelamburen. Neenga innum thoong.."

(Okay, maami. I'll go and sleep. But, you..)

I sighed, grabbed her hand, and pulled her away from there into my room. She frowned at me, wriggling her arm out of my grasp once we were inside. And, I leaned back to catch a glimpse of those two still chatting outside, but the sudden tug on my wrist nearly made me lose my balance, forcing me to steady myself to avoid falling onto her.

I looked at her with amusement as she gulped, raising her hands defensively towards my chest as if to create a barrier before saying,

"Ma..maama paathura poraa"

(Maama might see you)

She stammered, and I shook my head, straightening up. As she lowered her hands, I moved to sit on the couch beside the bed and looked at her, leaning back.

"Naan unkitta oru mukkiyamaana vishyam sollanum. Inga vaa.."

(I need to tell you something important. Come here..)

I tapped the couch, gesturing her to come and sit beside me. However, she fidgeted with her saree pallu, glanced around the room, and gulped nervously.

"Seetha.."

I called her, and the nervousness in her eyes made me regret pulling her into my room. I hadn't meant for it to feel this way. Just as I was about to stand up and tell her to leave, she suddenly rushed over and sat close to me on the couch, leaning back against my bicep, which rested on the headrest behind her.

"Inga aaru irukkaa?"

(Is anyone here?)

She asked huskily, her voice drawing me back to reality. I stared at her in a mix of amusement and shock, but she lifted her gaze to meet mine, breaking me out of my daze.

"Professor.. "

I gulped, quickly averting my gaze from her eyes, and said,

"Idhu private homestay. Naama mattum dha. Ippo naan onnu sollanum, so listen closely..."

(This is a private homestay. It's just us here. Right now, I need to tell you something, so listen closely...)

As I pulled my phone from my pocket, she remained leaning against my bicep, and I couldn't bring myself to push her away or remove my arm from the headrest of the couch. Holding the phone in my hand, she looked up at me and asked again in a whispering tone,

"Ohh. Enna chollanu?"

(Ohh. What do you want to say?)

"Nee ippo yedhukku husky voice'le peseetu iukka?"

(Why are you speaking in a husky voice now?)

"Maama'ku kaettutaa?"

(What if my uncle hears me?)

She shifted closer to me, trying to get a better look at my phone, but I instinctively leaned back, creating some distance between us.

"Un maama veliya dha nikkiraanga ulla'laa vara maataanga. Nee nera utkaaru.. "

(Your uncle is standing outside; he won't come in. You just sit straight..)

She looked up, squinting her eyes at me. I raised my left brow in a questioning manner, and she asked,

"Neenga dhane close'aah gavanikka sonninga? Apro, dhooramaa utkaandhaa epdi ennaala purunjukka mudiyum? epdi ennaala therinjukka mudiyum?"

(Aren't you the one who told me to listen closely? Then how am I supposed to understand anything if I'm sitting far away?)

She asked innocently, and suddenly it clicked-she was teasing me. I couldn't help but wonder how this would all play out.

"Ohh. Aama. Naan dha sonnen'le? Seri okay. Indha phone'eh konjam pudi"

(Ohh, right. I did say that, didn't I? Fine, okay. Just hold this phone a bit)

She frowned but grabbed my phone. And. in a swift motion, I twirled her right hand, causing her to land against my chest with a surprised shriek. My other hand caught her right hand after she settled on me, gripping it lightly over her lap.

The phone still rested in her other hand, and she was still recovering from the shock, though I noticed her heavy breaths as her chest rose and fell with the movement. This made me grip her hand just a little tighter, and she glanced up at me timidly. I smirked, averting my gaze back to her eyes and asked,

"Sollatumaa?Now, will you listen to me closely or you want to listen even more clo.."

(Shall I tell? Now, will you listen to me closely, or do you want to listen even more clo..)

"Ph..phone password enna?"

(Wh..what's the phone password?)

She raised her hand, holding my phone up to my face to silence me. I chuckled, grabbed her hand, and gently pulled it down, saying,

"0705"

She glanced at me.

"Year'uh?"

"Un aasa. Unlock pannu ma. Neram aagalayaa unakku?"

(Your wish. Unlock it, ma. Don't you have less time?)

"Aiyo aaagudhu aagudhu.."

(Aiyo, yes.. yes..)

She quickly unlocked my phone, and I glanced at her as she grinned at my wallpaper. It was a car selfie of me in a green shirt, wearing coolers, my hands gripping the steering wheel.

"Mudunjadhaa?"

(Done?)

I teased.

"Idho.. unga height enna?"

(Yes.. what's your height?)

I sighed in disbelief and asked,

"Naan unaku mela dhane irukken? Appove theriya venaamaa unakku?"

(Am I not right above you? Don't you already know?)

"Sollunga, professor"

(Tell me, professor)

She whined, leaning comfortably against my chest, her legs draped over the couch. Her upper arm rested against my side, and her elbow pressed gently into my stomach as she gripped my phone with both hands, still focused on my wallpaper. I smiled, resting my hand on the headrest to steady us, leaned my back on the couch and replied,

"Google'le onnu bookmark panni vachiruppen. Adha paaru.."

(I've bookmarked something on Google. Check it out...)

I ruffled my hair and then settled it again, running my fingers through it while she huffed, swiped the screen from left to right, found the Chrome app, selected the bookmark, and clicked on it since it was the only one saved.

"They are the ultimate form of camouflage. Put one on, and you disappear from view. One saved Harry Potter from many tight scrapes, and in the film Die Another Day the technology provided James Bond with the ultimate escape vehicle, an invisible car.

But now Japanese scientists have turned fantasy into reality by creating an invisibility cloak that makes it possible to see straight through its wearer. He, or she, simply vanishes from view? WHATTT?"

She read the article I had looked at a few days ago aloud, her voice filled with shock.

"Yes. Seri podhum. Ini naan soldren. Andha invisible power paper eduthu kudu"

(Yes. Okay, enough. Now I'll tell you. Just give me that invisible power paper)

She effortlessly retrieved the paper from her waist and handed it to me without any hesitation. I smiled as I accepted it and opened it to find that the purple color had spread covering almost half of the paper as I had expected. And, I heard her gasp, drawing my attention back to her; her eyes and mouth were wide open in shock.

"Enna idhu ellaame purple'aah change aagudhu?"

(Why is everything changing to purple?)

She looked up at me in shock, and I nodded in response, saying,

"Mmm idha soldradhukku dha unna paakanum'nu sonnen. Naan inga vandhadhukkum idhudhaa reason"

(I told you I needed to see you to explain this. This is the reason I came here.)

"Ohh"

She sat up straight, her hair falling over her right shoulder, looking tense and panicked as she pointed the paper in my hand and asked,

"Aana yen idhu ipdi maarudhu?"

(But why is it changing like this?)

I sighed and took her hands in mine to calm her down.

"Onnu illa, ma. Naan soldradha porumaiyaa kaelu. Nee yethana dhadava indha words use panni invisible aaguriyo idhu adhukku yaetha maadhiri konja konjamaa spread aagi fullaa purple'aah change aayidum"

(There's nothing to worry about, ma. Just listen to what I'm saying patiently. If you keep using these words repeatedly, they might spread gradually and change completely to purple, just like this)

She listened to me intently, her expression sincere as she processed my words and then asked,

"Apdi change aanaa ennaagum?"

(What happens if it changes like that?)

"Idhoda power ellaam poyidum"

(All the power will be lost)

I stated the fact to her.

"Appo adhukku apro ennaala invisible aaga mudiyaadhaa?"

(So, does that mean I can't become invisible then?)

I shook my head and replied,

"Mudiyaadhu"

(Yes. You can't)

Her expression turned sorrowful as she asked,

"Epdi neenga idhellaa kandu puduchinga?"

(How did you figure all this out?)

"Elangovan oda cousin oruthavanga japan'le Quantum Computing and Quantum Information science'nu oru course padikiraanga. Avanga padikire adhey instituition oda branch'le irukkardhu dha Minato college. Andha institution dha indha people or living things'eh invisible aakura research onnu conduct panneerkaanga"

(Elangovan's cousin is studying a course in Quantum Computing and Quantum Information Science in Japan. They are part of Minato College, which conducted a research on making people or human things invisible)

"Ohh. Aana idhu yen nekku kedaikanum?"

(Ohh. But why does it happen to me?)

"Adhu enakku therila, ma. But, non life not a life'ku meaning, you can touch and the touch can feel by the non living things but unnaala touch panna mudiyura yendha living things naalayum unnoda touch'eh feel panna mudiyaadhu. They can only feel it after you become visible again"

(I don't know that, ma. But the phrase 'non life not a life' have a meaning-they can be touched and can feel your touch. However, no living thing can feel your touch until you become visible again)

"Appo yen.."

(Then why..)

"Soldren"

(I'll tell you)

I leaned in closer, our knees brushing against each other, and said,

"Nee indha invisible vishyatha pathi first enkitta sollaama Kamali, un parents.. illa vera yaarukitta first solleerndhaalum avangalukkum unn..unnoda right parts mattum feel panna mudiyum"

(You're the first to tell me about this invisible thing. right? If your parents, kamali or anyone else hear about it first, they also can only feel your-your right parts)

She gulped.

"Parts?"

"Yes. I can feel and touch the whole right side bo..body of yours"

(Yes. I can feel and touch the entire right side of your body)

She wriggled out of my hold and shifted back slightly, creating a gap between us as she placed her feet down on the floor. I looked at her, intrigued by her reaction.

"Ep..epdi kandupudichinga idha? Elangovan sir oda cousin sonnaangalaa?"

(How... how did you find out about this? Did Elangovan sir's cousin tell you?)

I shook my head saying,

"Avanga idha research panneetu irukkumbodhu oru bird oda feather vandhu vilundhu dha idha paadhilaye nirutheerkaanga. Idhu paadhilaye niruthuna oru research naala ipdi aagi irukkalaam'nu soldraanga"

(They say that while conducting this research, a bird's feather fell and stopped abruptly. Since it's a partially completed research, it has this kind of effect)

"Aagi irukkalaam nu sonnaanga'naa? So, you told them? you.. you.."

(You're the one who said about the effect? So, did you tell them? You... you..)

I took a deep breath and said,

"Aama, Seetha. I felt your right side body against me. Naan anniku goa beach'le un waist mattum feel pannala"

(Yes, Seetha. I felt your right side body against me. That day at Goa beach, I didn't just feel your waist)

I spoke the truth, and silence enveloped us. After a minute, I gathered my courage and opened my mouth to apologize, even though it hadn't been intentional.

"Seeth.."

But,

"Appo anniku enkitta avlo kovamaa nadandhukittadhukku kaaranam idhu dhaanaa?"

(So, is this the reason you were so angry with me that day?)

"Naan andha nerathula epdi react pannanum'nu theriyaama panneeten, Seetha. Puriyudhu.. naan medhuvaa solli puriya vachirukanum unakku. Aana adha naan enna'nu solluven unkitta? I can't shake off the shock. Kolaputhula unmela kova pattuten. I'm really sorry"

(I didn't know how to react at that moment, Seetha. I get it now... I should have explained myself to you better. But how can I tell you that? I can't shake off the shock. I was confused. I'm really sorry)

I admitted with guilt, lowering my gaze.

"Professor"

She gently placed her hand over mine, resting on my thigh. I lifted my gaze to meet hers, and she gave me a reassuring smile as she said,

"It's okay. After all, we had a hug, right? Neenga kova padradhellaa naan perusaa eduthukka maaten. Neenga nekku ivlo space kudukardhe romba periya vishyam. Sikkal aana life le naan vera vandhu love adhu idhu nu sonnaa epdi irukkum'nu nekku puriyardhu. So, don't feel bad. Kova pattaa naan hurt aaven nlaa solli overthink panni feel panneetu irukkaadhinga "

(It's okay. After all, we had a hug, right? I won't take your anger too seriously. The fact that you give me this much space means a lot to me. I understand how it would feel if I were to come and suddenly talk about love or anything like that in such a complicated life. So, don't feel bad. Don't overthink and feel guilty, assuming I'll be hurt if you get mad.)

I was stunned.

How did she know that I'd been overthinking on that the entire day?

She smiled and asked,

"Vera edhaadhu sollanumaa?"

(Is there anything else you want to say?)

I felt a wave of relief wash over me after hearing her thoughts and realizing the immense trust she had in me. With a softer tone, I said,

"Mmm.. innum oru... romba mukkiyamaana vishyam"

(Mmm... there's still one more... a very important thing)

My voice fading as the weight of what I was about to reveal settled on me. This was the one thing that had been haunting me ever since I discovered it.

She frowned, sensing the seriousness in my tone, and asked,

"Ennadhu?"

(What's wrong?)

"That... when I spoke to Elangovan's cousin about this invisible power... everything got revealed to their college dean"

I said, and she knitted her brows.

"So?"

"So.. maybe, avanga unna thaedi inga varlaam"

(So... maybe, they might come looking for you here)

"Whatt?"

Her eyes widened in shock.

I held her hand.

"Naan dha irukken'le? Naan adha paathukuren. Summa unkitta ellaame inform pannanum'nu dha sonnen"

(I'm here, right? I'm keeping an eye on that. I just mentioned that I should inform you about everything )

"But, epdi.. I mean.. thaedi varuvaanga'naa yedhukku?"

(But how... I mean, why would they come looking for me?)

"Avanga research unmela dha ma execute aageerku.. so.. unna.."

(Their research executed on you, so... they might..)

"Kidnap panneervaanga'laa?"

(Are they going to kidnap me?)

"Chey, adhellaa onnula ma"

(Come on, that's not going to happen)

I shook my head and tried to reassure her.

"Everything will be fine, really. There's no need to worry. I..."

I started, but before I could finish, she shifted closer to me. Wrapping her arm around my bicep, she nestled her cheek against my shoulder, and I instinctively leaned down a bit to make her more comfortable.

Her hair cascaded over my chest, and she placed her hands on my left thigh. I rested my other hand on my other thigh, leaning back slightly. Then, wanting to provide her some support, I gently leaned my cheek against the top of her head. But she lifted her face, resting her chin on my shoulder and gazing up at me. There was barely an inch between our faces. She smiled and blinked at me, making me chuckle.

"Yen apdi paakura?"

(Why are you looking at me like that?)

She shrugged her shoulders and settled her cheek back on my bicep, tightening her grip around it and intertwining her fingers with a smile. I shook my head, exhaling softly, and rested my cheek on top of her head.

"Enna kidnap panneetu poradhu oru young man'aah irundhaa nallaarkum"

(If it's a young man who's going to kidnap me, then it might not be so bad)

I frowned at her enthusiastic words, after a minute of silence.

"Purila?"

(what?)

"Illa naan stories'le laa padichirukken, ipdi oruthavanga heroine'eh kadatheetu poi vappaanga, apro avanga sanda poduvaanga, adhu apdiye love aagum, apro marriage, apro jolly'aah irukkum"

(I've read stories where a character gets kidnapped by someone like that, and then they end up falling in love, leading to marriage and a happily ever after)

She moved even closer, nuzzling her cheek against my bicep, a happy whine escaping her lips. I furrowed my brows, feeling a mix of frustration and anger. How could she even think like this? Was she out of her mind? Love with a kidnapper? What kind of fuck was that?

"Loosaa nee?"

(Are you mad?)

I asked her, but,

"Yen? aana vera yaaraadhu irundhaa kashtam'le? en appa, amma ku'laa therinjiruchunaa romba kashta paduvaanga, professor"

(Why? But if it's someone else, wouldn't it be worse? My dad and mom would be devastated; they'd have such a hard time dealing with it, professor)

"Adhellaa onnu nadakaadhu. Naan irukken, ma. Nee loosu maadhiri pesaadha, Seetha"

(None of that is going to happen. I'm here, okay? Stop talking like you're crazy, Seetha)

"Neenga irukka varaikum nadakaadhu. Apro two to three years'le naan marriage panni vera veetukku poyiduven, apro enna anga vandhu yaaraadhu kidnap panneetu poitaa enna seiven?"

(Until you're around, nothing will happen. In two or three years, I'll get married and move to another house. If someone kidnaps me then, what will I do?)

The thought of her getting married itself pushing me to the edge of my patience. I can feel my frustration building as I try to stifle in my emotions.

"Mch, konjam endhiri"

(Mch, just get up)

She straightened up and looked at me with wide, innocent eyes.

"Unakku neram aagalayaa? Kelambu. Summa naduraathiri'le vandhu yerichal panneetu"

(You don't have much time? Then leave. Coming over and making me mad at midnight isn't fair)

I said harshly, murmuring the last part under my breath.

"Naan enna pannen?"

(What did I do?)

I turned my gaze away from her pouting lips, leaned back on the couch, and picked up my phone, saying,

"Nee onnume pannala. Ipdilaa night time vera yaaru veetukaadhu poit.."

(You haven't done anything. No one else will go to someone's house at this time of night...)

I paused as she pulled herself up, kneeling beside me and cupping my chin with one hand while her other hand rested on my shoulder from behind, her elbow brushing against my bicep. I glanced at her hand on my shoulder before turning to meet her gaze, noticing the grin spreading across her face. I narrowed my brows, feeling a mix of confusion and curiosity.

"Enna?"

(What?)

"Illaa.. indha invisible power pathi enkitta soldradhukkaaga mattum dha neenga inga vandhinga illa?"

(Oh... Did you come here just to talk about this invisible power?)

I blinked, shifting my gaze away from her playful eyes and shrugged my shoulders as I said,

"Ye.."

But I gasped when I felt her warm breath against my cheek, followed by a gentle kiss on my beard. Before I could react, she leaped off the couch and dashed past me. I quickly caught her wrist, halting her as I realized she was teasing me.

Standing up from the couch, I pulled her back to me, twisting her hand gently behind her, swiftly. And, she looked up at me with a shy, embarrassed smile, her cheeks flushed as she gulped and panted slightly.

"Prof.. professor. Naan.. naan ponum"

(I want to go..)

She stammered, wriggling in my hold, but I tightened my grip and pulled her closer, causing her to rest her other hand on my shoulder. Our eyes locked, her tense gaze searching mine as she curled her wrist around my hold, still attempting to break free.

But, a gasp escaped her lips when I pinned her against the wall beside the couch, releasing her hand and leaning my left forearm against the wall above her head.

"Don't you ever use that invisible power unless it's an emergency. Got it?"

I said, and her throat bobbed as she gulped, and she nodded her head, chin lifting in agreement.

"Edhaadhu unakku unna suthi uncomfortable or uneasy'aah thonunaa, who should you call?"

(If you ever feel uncomfortable or uneasy about anything, who should you call?)

"Y..you"

I smirked, raising my brows at her and said,

"Smart. Po"

(Leave)

I nodded my chin toward the door, signaling her to exit. She gulped again and turned to leave, but I placed my hand on the wall beside her face, stopping her. She frowned, turned towards me and blinked at me while I tried hard to suppress my smile.

"Naan ponum"

(I need to go)

"Po"

(Go)

I said, glancing intensely into her eyes while she bit her lower lip and glanced at my hand. Then, she bent down slightly, trying to escape, but I slid my hand beside her waist. She looked up at me innocently, her eyes wide and blinking, squinting as if to make me let her go.

I shrugged my shoulders in response. She met my gaze for a moment before lowering her eyes when I leaned down to her height, brushing my hot breath over the fine hairs on her neck, which had already risen in goosebumps. She writhed and clutched my collar as I slowly shifted towards her cheek, near the corner of her lips. But she pushed me away, placing her palms on my chest, and ran past me, disappearing out the door. I still stood there in the same posture until I heard a phone ringtone. I turned my head to look at her over my shoulder as she stood there, fidgeting with her saree pallu.

I mentally steeled myself, defending against the urge to pull her back into my embrace, and raised my brows at her.

"Maami koopadraa. Naan anga illa'nu therinjirukumaa?"

(Aunt is calling me. What if she came to know that I'm not there in my room?)

She asked me with a trembling voice, fear evident in her expression. I cocked my brows, confused and straightened my posture before asking,

"Yen apdi kekura?"

(Why are you asking like that?)

"Indha time'le maami yen nekku call panna poraa? Anga yaarukko therinjiruchu nu nenaikiren"

(Why is the aunt calling me at this time? I wonder if she found out that I'm not in my room.)

She was really starting to panic.

"Seri nee panick aagaadha. Just, un phone silent mode potu, invisible aagi po. Kaettaa phone silent'le irundhuchu, nalla thoongeeten adhaa neenga kooptinglaa'nu therila'nu sollu. Avanga next day edhaadhu kaettaa mattum sollu. Neeye volunteer'ahh poi edhaadhu pesi maatikaadha"

(Okay, don't panic. Just put your phone on silent mode and go invisible. If they ask, say your phone was on silent and you slept well, so you didn't hear them calling. If they ask anything the next day, only then explain. Don't volunteer yourself into talking and getting caught)

I gave her an idea, but she seemed to be suppressing a smile or maybe a blush-I couldn't tell which-and then she asked,

"Invisible aaga koodaadhu'nu sonnel?"

(Didn't you say not to get invisible?)

I stared into her eyes for a moment, trying to gauge her reaction, and then said,

"Ippo aagalaam po.."

(Now it's okay, leave..)

And I felt a surge of desire for her, my voice turning raspy. She nodded and turned to leave, but...

"Seetha, wait.."

I spoke desperately, not wanting her to leave. I just wanted to silence the thoughts in my mind and the thudding of my heart as my eyes followed her every move. The way my gaze lingered on her back-the pleats of her saree-made me curse myself, intensifying my desperation and desire for her.

Upon hearing me, she stopped and turned to look at me, causing my gaze to travel from her down to her eyes. And, I approached her with predatory steps, maintaining eye contact as she stood there, gulping.

I really didn't want to act impulsively, but as soon as I stood in front of her, she parted her lips to say something. But, in a swift motion, I wrapped my right arm around her shoulder, pulling her into me, making her gasp.

When she looked into my eyes, her throat tightening as she gulped, I squinted and turned my gaze outside the room. As usual, she fell into my trap. Smirking and seizing the moment, I leaned in to kiss her cheek, applying more pressure this time, causing her neck to arch back as I drew closer. My other hand rested on the doorframe for balance. And, I barely restrained myself from nibbling on the soft skin of her cheek as she leaned into me.

Then, my hand brushed against something soft, and I felt her hands clutch my tshirt collar as I heard her let out a soft gasp.

"Ahh..."

I quickly let her go as I realized where my hand had wandered. She shot me an innocent, cat-like glare, placing her hand on her waist where I'd squeezed, a product of the desire I had barely managed to suppress.

However, she shrieked and dashed away just as I reached out to catch her hand again, playfully trying to ease my urge. I laughed and opened the door, following her to the entrance, where she turned invisible, giving me one last blushy-eyed look before disappearing completely.

Exhaling deeply, I returned to the room after a few minutes to try and get some sleep before my train back to Ooty, which was just four hours away.

But how could I sleep after what she'd put me through?

The sleep escaped me, and the thought of how my control had been slipping stirred wild, untamed thoughts in my mind.

Indha pulla yeppo transfer certificate vaangum?

(When will this girl get her transfer certificate?)

*********

TBC..

Epdi irundhuchu?

I feel like something is missing in this update. Romba naal aana naala touch vittu pocho?

Konjam illa rombave overthink pandra aalunga namma aalu. So, konjam olara dha seivaaru onnum panna mudiyaadhu.

I started with "aanaalum indha mayakkam" and ended with "yaanji" 💀

TC vaanga vachurlaam'nu nenaikiren neenga enna nenaikiringa ? 🌚

Shall we dive into the next part of the story? As I mentioned before, this story will only have 70 chapters !!!

And, I've missed you all sooooooo much! <3 😫💜

Please vote and comment 🙏🏻❤️

See you all in the next update, bubyee 🚴‍♀️💜🦋